Rifle vs. Pistol - Gun "Theory"

[jtyner]

In a lot of the reading that I've done, it always seems that writers prefer rifles to pistols, in some cases, even when talking about close quarters kind of stuff. This idea is probably best embodied in the comment, loosely paraphrased, "the only purpose for a pistol is to fight your way back to your rifle."

In spite of the prevalence of this idea, I've never really seen the reason(s) for it explained. Why is a rifle considered superior? Is it the range, the power? Can someone explain it to me or point me at some discussion of the "theory" behind the idea?

[ocspeedracer]

i would think they believe this because of;
mag capacity (30 rounds in a tacticool rifle vs 17 in a typical 9mm handgun)
range
easier to aim with the longer sight picture

[Librarian]

Here's a discussion for you :

http://larrycorreia.wordpress.com/2007/09/20/carbine-vs-shotgun-vs-pistol-for-home-defense/

[jtyner]

In the military, the purpose of a pistol is to procure the use of a rifle.

I guess I'd still like to understand why this is. Having never served in the military, I would assume that it's the range and power of the rifle vs. the pistol, but I never see the reasons explicitly stated.

Here's a discussion for you :
http://larrycorreia.wordpress.com/20...-home-defense/

I liked the writing style in this one... made it an easy read. The author seems to prefer the rifle for its power and the shotgun because it makes more holes over a wider area (baseball vs. marble), but he basically seemed to be saying that for home defense, something is better than nothing, and what you're most comfortable with is probably best.

[lowk_18]

I believe the rifle is preferred because the rifle brings more power and more accuracy into play. Anyone is going to be more accurate with a rifle as compared to a pistol. Probably even more so under the stress of actually using their weapon in combat. Range isn't usually a factor considered in HD scenarios.

[Grassninja]

You can basically boil it down to this quote from that link:

"But in comparison to a long gun, they[handguns] lack power, and they are much more difficult to learn to shoot well. Anything you can mount on your shoulder is going to be a far easier platform to get fast, accurate hits with."

Perhaps it would be useful if you reversed your query, and asked yourself what advantages, if any, a handgun would have over a rifle/carbine in a close quarters/HD situation.

[mif_slim]

you wouldn't want to drive a formula 1 car on the streets and you wouldn't want to race a f-150 in a formula 1 race.

each has their purpose. at 2 feet a pistol would be better as it's more compact and you can shoot from a draw, at 10+ feet a rifle would be better due to power.

every tool has it's job and each can fulfill their own specific job better then others. why do you think there's rifles, sub-machine guns, pistols and bayonet? because they all fil a diffrent job.

to answer your question would be to ask yourself first, "what do I need this for?"

[Tanner68]

In spite of the prevalence of this idea, I've never really seen the reason(s) for it explained. Why is a rifle considered superior? Is it the range, the power? Can someone explain it to me or point me at some discussion of the "theory" behind the idea?

It is just so much easier to hit what you are aiming at with a rifle. And usually with a round considerably more powerful. So yes, it is the range and the power.

[maddoggie13]

This is why I have ar & ak pistols with drum mag kits...

[bohoki]

rifles have better range more controllable

[ZX-10R]

Rifles because you can use them like a club once you are out of ammo

I personally prefer rifles that is why I have yet to make the handgun purchase. If I do it is either 1911 pattern, M9, or M&P 9mm.

Rifles are more accurate due to length of barrel which effects velocity. In most "Real" states magazine capacity is a must...With everything being 10 rounders here it is negligible.

I like rifles...Not really sure why. Quite simply they look badarse.

[Shooter79]

I have always heard others say that they prefer rifles even in close quarters because of the accuracy and magazine capacity. I have actualy not fired a rifle yet but I am looking forward to the opportunity.

[GW]

The rifle wins because it is easier to hit your target with a rifle and when you hit your target, you hit it much harder with a rifle round than you ever will with a handgun round (Except perhaps the.30 carbine)

[jtyner]

Rifles because you can use them like a club once you are out of ammo

Discussion over. I think we've arrived at the answer.

Actually, that seems like a good idea for one of the smiley icons.

[steelrain82]

In my experience rifles are nice. But in close a shotgun is great! But a pistol is more efficient for doing the upclose and nasty work. Mag capacity is great but like others have said each serves it's own purpose.